Croatia

10 Unusual Destinations in Croatia

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testdata April 24, 2012 26 Views

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The Central European nation of Croatia is a historic and fascinating destination conveniently located next to Italy as well as the Adriatic Sea. This one country boasts a beautiful Mediterranean shoreline as well as Balkan interior terrain perfect for hiking, mountain biking and more.

While most tourists head immediately to the landmarks and tourist traps in cities like Dubrovnik and Split, those looking for more unusual holidays might be interested in one of these ten unusual destinations found throughout the country of Croatia. Each is slightly off the beaten track and will provide an unforgettable experience for travellers.

1. Stipanska

This Island is located just off the coast of Croatia in the region known as Dalmatia. Unlike some of the other nearby islands, Stipanska is less popular with tourists and far more off the beaten path.

Get there by boat from the busier island of Hvar. Stipanska has limited accommodations but it is possible to stay in guesthouses or even hotels in Hvar at night and travel to Stipanska each day.

2. Poreč

This incredible town is situated along the Adriatic Coast of Croatia. Although it is home to stunning beaches and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the sixth century Euphrasian Basilica, there are few tourists here for most of the year.

There are a handful of smaller hotels and prices are very reasonable considering the beachfront locations.

3. Ston

This Dalmation City is often skipped over by tourists who are more interested in the culture of larger cities or beachside resorts. The main attraction here is the giant Ston Fortress which was once the largest in all of Europe.

The town has a Balkan, Roman and Mediterranean history and the fortress can be toured or even stayed in overnight for a truly unique holiday experience.

4. Jagnjedovec

Each summer this small town in Central Croatia holds a festival called Mnogo u Malom. The name of the festival literally translates to a lot in a pot, which is an apt description for the multicultural offerings on display.

In a country where history has not always been kind to a diverse population, this town truly comes alive and is something very few non-Croatian residents will ever have the opportunity to see. Don’t miss it if you are in Croatia during the summer.

5. Rovinj

Few people realize that a number of Croatian towns are actually bilingual. Rovinj is one such example, as the residents are typically fluent in both Croatian and Italian.

The town has a medieval feel and is far less crowded than the major cities or beach resorts along the coast. One simple guesthouse in the city center provides welcoming and comfortable accommodation.

6. Belišće

This town in the region of Slavonia lies just south of the Hungarian border. Although Belišće is an industrial town, it is visited by virtually no tourists. While there are no major tourism attractions available, there is some truly beautiful outdoor recreation to be had.

Enjoy rafting or kayaking down the Drava River, fishing or even joining the locals on their hunting expeditions. Accommodations include guesthouses, Croatian villas and small and affordable inns.

7. Šidski Banovci

This village in Syrmia is one of the few destinations in Croatia where the majority of the residents are Serbian. The Yugoslavian traditions are still upheld throughout the town even down to the street names.

This is an incredible place to visit for those who want to step back in time and experience Croatia as it might have been fifty years ago. A number of Croatian villas are available for rent in this area at unbelievably low prices.

8. Senj

This town of the Adriatic Coast of Croatia is nestled between some of the larger tourism destinations. Senj, however, is relatively unknown and is a hidden gem for those interested in outdoor recreation rather than crowded shorelines.

It is home to the backpacker paradise of Camp Ujča, a location that offers kayaking, scuba diving, fishing and more. Enjoy a small bar and restaurant onsite but the rest of the beach will be nearly deserted.

9. Motovun

This tiny hillside town in Istria is home to a mere five hundred residents, but the few visitors who make it to the incredible town are welcomed wholeheartedly.

The appeal of this destination is the incredible views overlooking the countryside as well as the quaint village homes and rustic restaurant that will appeal to visitors from around the world.

10. Baška

This village can be found on the island of Krk. The best feature of this village is the large pebble beach right on the Adriatic. Visitors will also find a small town feel and medieval architecture like the Bašćanska Ploča.

For peace and quiet, beautiful scenic landscapes, a view of the ocean and a traditional Croatian experience, Baška is the perfect village for your upcoming holiday to the country.